As part of The Stapleford Centre's commitment to resourcing Christians working in education we are pleased to offer our series of Biblical reflections for busy teachers: Another Day. The reflections are quickly read, will provide food for thought and will help you reconnect with God during your busy day. All reflections can be downloaded or read online.

Another Day - Biblical reflections for busy teachers

34 - "Bidden or not bidden, God is present"

During the 20 years I was teaching I often wondered what ‘ordinary’ people used to do during their lunch breaks. Go for a walk, read a book, visit the pub? It remained a mystery until I stopped teaching, because lunch to me was part of the non-stop rollercoaster that was a day in the life of a teacher. Even now I often jump straight up whilst still chewing my last mouthful of sandwich, ready to start work again.

Days were marked by pre school preparation, assembly, lessons, break duty, lunchtime clubs, marking, more lessons, staff meetings, after school marking and finally home. Often I hardly had time to think, let alone reflect on what it meant to be a Christian teacher, to pray for my colleagues, pupils and parents.

We have a plaque on the wall in our office – it reads, ‘Bidden or not bidden, God is present’. It is a constant reminder to me that whatever I am doing, wherever I am, God is with me. And whether you are focussed on teaching, marking, preparation or relaxing at the end of the day, God is present even when you may not be aware of Him.

“Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there. If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast.”

Even on those breathless days when we don’t even seem to have the time to pray, God is present. He promises that He will both guide us and hold us fast! What an encouragement!

Heavenly Father, thank you that you are always with me. Thank you that ‘bidden or not bidden’ you are present with me. May I know your presence with me as I commence another day serving you.
Amen.